Polecat Catfish Tournament Starts New Season with BoardSafe Docks
March has arrived, bringing longer days, more sunshine, and the return of warm-weather river adventures. In Loudon County, Tennessee, just southwest of Knoxville, anglers are especially excited to launch their boats at an updated TWRA location with an updated boat ramp, gangway, and courtesy dock on the Tennessee River.
The Loudon community kicked off its Polecat Catfish Tournament season on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the newly improved TWRA boat ramp and courtesy dock, located at 29302 Loudon Highway, Loudon. While “Polecat” isn’t its official name, the community has affectionately adopted the title, and everyone knows it. The site now features a single-lane boat ramp, an aluminum gangway, and a floating courtesy dock, all of which received much-needed upgrades. A newly paved parking lot for cars, trucks, and trailers completes the improvements.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) operates the launch in partnership with the Loudon County Parks and Recreation Department, and collaborated with BoardSafe Docks to design, manufacture, and install the accessible gangway and floating courtesy dock.
Given these updates, it was fitting for the Polecat Catfish Tournament to launch its season at this revitalized location. I had the chance to speak with John Stringfield, the tournament’s director, about what the improvements mean to the local fishing community.
A tradition of fishing and fellowship
Not knowing much about competitive catfishing, I did some research on the group’s Facebook page and had an insightful conversation with John. One thing became clear: he and his fellow anglers are thrilled with the site improvements. “This new site means so much to all of us. We’re like family," John told me. "Not only do we help and support each other on the water, but in life."
The Polecat Catfish Tournament began as a local event sponsored by G-Daddy’s Bait and Tackle Shop, a family-owned business that had long supported Loudon fishermen. They hosted monthly tournaments until age and health concerns led them to pass the torch. Enter John Stringfield, an avid fisherman and long-time tournament participant, who stepped up as tournament director about two and a half years ago.
Since taking over, John has expanded the tournament from six boats and 14 participants to nine boats and 20 anglers, who must participate in 10 out of 16 individual events to be considered for the Angler of the Year competition. Last year, almost 100 anglers competed in single-day tournaments. Some competitors drive over an hour to take part, drawn by the camaraderie and love of the sport. The tournament now boasts 12 local sponsors; a strong testament to its growing impact on the community.
Fishing, for John, is more than just a pastime. As a child, he learned to fish from his father, gaining valuable life lessons along the way. "Fishing taught me patience, perseverance, and an appreciation for my surroundings," he shared. Over time, those lessons evolved into lifelong friendships, built on countless hours spent together casting lines on the water.
A commitment to conservation
Beyond competition, the Polecat Catfish Tournament emphasizes environmental stewardship. Participants follow strict regulations to ensure fish are handled responsibly. Live wells are required to keep catfish healthy until weigh-ins, and all fish are carefully recorded before being released back into the water.
Many of these anglers recognize local catfish by size, weight, and distinctive markings, a testament to their deep connection to the sport and the ecosystem. The group also supports Operation Vets for Nets and youth angler programs, sharing their passion for fishing with veterans and young outdoor enthusiasts.
Running the tournament takes teamwork. Volunteers assist with registration, record-keeping, photography, live-well checks, weigh-ins, and measurements, ensuring everything runs smoothly. It's a true community effort, all brought together by a shared love of fishing.
As my 10-minute interview turned into a 45-minute conversation, John's passion became undeniable. He is dedicated to growing the tournament, fostering connections, and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the sport as much as he does. Thanks to the improvements at the Polecat Boat Launch, and community support from its sponsors and volunteers, the group is poised for another great season—one where fishing isn’t just about the catch, but about the community it brings together and the friendships that are formed. More information on this group is available on their Facebook page: Polecat Catfish Tournament.
However, you don’t have to be a tournament catfisher to come out and enjoy the new Polecat Launch. All good stewards are welcome to come out and connect with nature and test their fishing skills at this and other TWRA locations. More information on fishing is available at this link: Fishing In Tennessee.
BoardSafe Docks offers commercial aluminum fishing piers, accessible courtesy docks, and adaptive kayak launches that can be customized to suit our customer’s needs. Our piers, gangways, and bridges are designed for marine applications in lakes, marshes, rivers, and other bodies of water. BoardSafe designs and manufactures numerous products that meet the highest construction requirements. Our accessible products offer universal access to all. Contact us at BoardSafe Docks or give us a call at 610-899-0286 to learn how we can help improve your recreational experiences along the water. #AccessYourAdventure
New Paddle Opportunities at Seven Islands State Birding Park
The January sun glistened over the calm waters of Seven Islands State Birding Park in Kodak, Tennessee. The new year brings accessible paddle opportunities to the park with its newly installed BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch.
David Scott, enjoying the pristine beauty of the Tennessee River, was making a first attempt to launch and paddle independently using the universally-designed launch system.
David, an avid nature enthusiast who uses a wheelchair, received a new kayak for Christmas. This fueled his desire to get out on the river. When he heard about the new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak and Canoe Launch at Seven Islands State Birding Park, he knew it was the perfect opportunity to get out there with his family and friends to celebrate the beauty of a new year. “I’ve always loved the water, but accessibility has been challenging,” he shared. “This launch makes all the difference.”
The launch is part of Tennessee State Parks' commitment to inclusivity. With the help of BoardSafe Docks, the park now offers a launch designed to meet the needs of individuals with physical disabilities, and is usable by everyone looking for safer and easier access to the water. The system includes an ADA-sloped gangway, adaptive boarding features and equipment, and floating docks with room for wheelchairs and those who like to paddle and fish. The safety features are crafted to ensure that everyone has a safe and seamless transition from land to water.
David arrived early that morning and parked in the designated wheelchair-friendly spot near the Blue Barn. With accessible restrooms nearby and clear signage pointing the way to the kayak launch, David found the setup welcoming and easy to navigate. He was eager to try the adaptive features on his own.
The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch includes a transfer bench and an overhead grab bar to guide him to his kayak. “The design is genius,” David noted as he moved from his wheelchair onto the boarding bench. As he slid himself into the kayak using the overhead grab straps, he was able to grab his paddles and use the pull bars to pull himself into the river. Moments later, he was gliding across the river, waving his paddles in the air with joy.
The Design Scope of BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch at Seven Islands Park
- gangway, 8x60’, dual rail
- combo gangway/chute, 60'
- bulkhead mounting angle kit
- (1) floating dock, 8'2"x20', 16" freeboard
- (1) floating dock, 8'2"x16'4", 16" freeboard
- (1) floating dock, 8'2"x25', 16" freeboard
- (1) diverter dock, 8'2"x16'4", 16" freeboard
- rub rail
- corner guards
- dock-to-dock hinge attachment
- dock-to-dock threshold strips (4)
- dock-to-dock mending plate
- toe kick
- fishing pier rail (with mesh panels)
- cleats, 10"
- kayak launch, 16'4" single entry
- adaptive boarding kit
As David paddled, he took in the breathtaking scenery. The park’s 416 acres are a haven for wildlife, including more than 190 species of birds. Great blue herons waded in the shallows, while a bald eagle soared overhead. “It’s like stepping into another world,” he said. “The water brings you closer to nature in a way that’s impossible to describe.”
The experience wasn’t just about the adventure. For David, it was a moment of healing and empowerment. “Being out here reminds me of everything I’m capable of,” he said. “The water has this incredible ability to renew your spirit.”
The Head of the Tennessee Initiative
Seven Islands State Birding Park’s accessible kayak launch is part of a broader effort to make outdoor recreation available to everyone. The Head of the Tennessee River Initiative promotes the health of the French Broad and Holston Rivers by creating greater public access to the river, and shoreline protection from Douglas and Cherokee Dams to the Head of the Tennessee River. The park’s trails, water access points, and educational programs reflect a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can connect with nature. Enjoyment and protection of Tennessee’s waterways are valuable investments for local communities and their future, making East Tennessee a great place to live, work, and visit.
For paddlers like David, the adaptive kayak launch is more than a piece of equipment—it’s a gateway to freedom. As he pulled his kayak back to the dock later that morning, his smile was brighter than the sunlit water around him. “I’ll be back for some fishing, too,” he promised. “This is just the beginning.”
“This project is a joint partnership of TVA, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Legacy Parks Foundation, Tennessee State Parks, City of Knoxville, Knox County, and BoardSafe Docks. There are a lot of stakeholders involved and the planning takes a little bit of time. Everybody shares the value of getting people on the river, so it’s a great project,” said Carol Evans, Executive Director of the Legacy Parks Foundation.
The Tennessee River project was announced in 2023 at the annual Legacy Parks Luncheon. The 20-mile river trail will start at Seven Islands State Birding Park on the French Broad River and end in Downtown Knoxville. Several accessible BoardSafe Kayak Launches are already designed and approved and will be installed along the water trail beginning at Seven Islands, heading downriver to Cruze Landing and Asbury Landing, creating access and exit points with 5- to 7-mile intervals. Future launches will be designed and developed until the 20-mile stretch is fully accessible and reaches downtown Knoxville.
To learn more about Seven Islands State Birding Park or to plan your visit, explore Tennessee State Parks’ website.
For more details about BoardSafe’s adaptive docks, accessible fishing piers, ADA gangways, and pedestrian bridges that connect people to nature and open doors to accessible recreation, visit BoardSafeDocks.com or call 610-899-0286. BoardSafe Docks can help you improve your waterfront and your community. Accessible adventures await!
New Year = New Adventures from BoardSafe Docks
The start of a new year often heralds the start of a new life, at least in part. The excitement of the celebration usually wells up into resolutions to take action to make one a better person. It's also an opportunity to drop a few more items into the bucket list of things we want to see, places we want to visit, and adventures we want to experience.
For the differently-abled person, that bucket may appear shallow or completely empty. The results of an accident or serious health issue can leave us believing life has passed us by or our world has shrunk to a boring cinder. BoardSafe Docks takes pride in helping people—especially mobility-challenged individuals—discover or rediscover outdoor adventures that can enrich their lives.
BoardSafe Docks' innovative products provide safe, adaptive access to waterways of various types in exciting locations, opening up the great outdoors to everyone. An individual who thought they couldn't get out on the water due to mobility limitations can now join family and friends in fishing, paddling, birding, and just leisurely floating along, taking in the sights and sounds of local waterways. Family activities can again become a reality in the great outdoors!
A differently-abled person is still a full person deserving of the pleasures of life. Thanks to groups like Team River Runner and other adaptive sports groups, paddlers can join like-minded adventurers and meet new friends.
Here are some articles about how BoardSafe Docks' products and projects have reached into the bucket and crossed off an adaptive list item.
Adaptive Kayak Launch Brings Joy to Team River Runner
The Evolution of Kayaking and Access for All
BoardSafe Spokesman and Accessible Sports Advocate Ken Ryno Keeps Chugging Along
Minsi Lake’s Adaptive Kayak Launch and Fishing Piers 1 Year Later
Including More Paddlers With an Accessible Kayak Launch
Beaver Creek Flotilla: Building Community and So Much More
Chester Frost Park’s New 80-ft. Gangway, Accessible Fishing Pier, Courtesy Docks
BoardSafe’s Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch, designed for universal access, improves the paddling experience for paddlers of all abilities looking for a safer and easier entrance into the water.
To discuss your project and learn more about BoardSafe Docks and our specific adaptive features that work for the widest range of users, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
Tulsa’s Adaptive Kayak Launch: A Model of Accessibility & Innovation
The City of Tulsa, Oklahoma, has recently unveiled an exciting new way for residents and visitors to experience the scenic waters on Zink Lake. Thanks to a collaboration between the City of Tulsa and the River Parks Authority, and funding from the Improve Our Tulsa initiative, the newly-installed BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch ensures everyone can enjoy Tulsa’s natural beauty—regardless of mobility challenges. Guests can bring their kayak or paddleboard, or rent one nearby to access their outdoor adventure.
This state-of-the-art launch, created by BoardSafe Docks, is designed to set new standards for accessibility and inclusion. Located on the east bank of Zink Lake near 19th and Riverside Drive, the launch combines advanced engineering with thoughtful design to create a safe and welcoming space for all paddlers.
Innovative Engineering Meets Unique Challenges
Constructing a kayak launch on the Arkansas River presented specific challenges due to floodplain restrictions. The design required a robust, elevated structure that could withstand environmental demands while remaining fully accessible.
BoardSafe Docks tackled this challenge by designing a 100-foot gangway and chute supported by a steel cantilevered deck system outside the 100-year floodplain. This durable, ADA-compliant floating dock system ensures safety, stability, and seamless water access for users of all abilities.
Designed for Inclusion and Accessibility
The adaptive kayak launch reflects BoardSafe’s mission to enhance freedom, dignity, and participation in water sports for individuals with mobility challenges. Key features include:
- ADA-Compliant Gangway A gently-sloped pathway provides easy wheelchair access from land to water.
- Spacious Kayak Chute A secure cradle stabilizes kayaks, including those with outriggers, ensuring safe entry and exit.
- Floating Dock Made of durable aluminum, the dock features ample wheelchair maneuverability space, complete with a safety-enhancing toe kick.
- Tiered Boarding Bench with Roll Cage A supportive design aids users in transitioning from wheelchairs to kayaks with confidence and ease.
Click this link for a video review of Tulsa’s kayak launch: facebook.com/share/v/uSK5bSUJESYxaNKD/
A Commitment to Community and Recreation
This adaptive launch is more than just infrastructure—it’s a commitment to inclusivity. By enabling safe, accessible water recreation, Tulsa’s new kayak launch fosters community connections and encourages outdoor activity for everyone, including adaptive paddlers.
To celebrate the launch, Tulsa hosted a community event in collaboration with the Pott County Kayak Club. This event showcased the facility’s accessibility while promoting awareness and support for individuals with mobility impairments, inspiring participants to embrace the joy of kayaking. View video highlights from the event here: Tulsa Kayak Launch Video.
BoardSafe Docks: A Trusted Leader in Accessibility Solutions
With over 20 years of experience, BoardSafe Docks specializes in aluminum-welded floating dock systems tailored to meet diverse needs. Their expertise in adaptive features has made them a leader in enhancing accessibility and outdoor recreation across the U.S.
BoardSafe’s key contributions to Tulsa’s launch included:
- foundation and structural engineering.
- a 10’ x 30’ cantilevered deck.
- a 100-foot ADA-compliant gangway/kayak chute.
- adaptive features that included two Clip-A-Launch systems, an adaptive boarding kit, and three floating dock segments.
Why Choose BoardSafe Docks?
BoardSafe Docks stands out for its commitment to quality, innovation, and inclusion. When working with BoardSafe, you receive:
- Expertise Decades of experience in custom dock design for unique conditions.
- Customization Tailored solutions for fluctuating tides, currents, and water levels.
- Innovation High-quality materials and cutting-edge designs that ensure durability and functionality.
- Strong Partnerships Collaborative approaches with clients, engineers, and architects to achieve project goals.
- BoadSafe’s Customer Service unmatched in the dock manufacturing industry.
If your community is seeking to improve accessibility with a custom floating dock system, BoardSafe Docks can deliver proven solutions that enhance freedom and dignity for all users. Contact us today at BoardSafeDocks.com or give us a call at 610-899-0286 to explore how we can bring inclusive water access to your waterfront project.
#AccessibleRecreation #AdaptiveKayakLaunch #CityofTulsa #RiverParksAuthority #UniversalAccess #AccessYourAdventure @BoardSafeDocks
BoardSafe Universal Access Kayak Launch, Great Sacandaga Lake, Northville NY
BoardSafe Docks is proud to announce a recent installation on the Great Sacandaga Lake in Northville, NY. The lake and launch are located in the southern region of the Adirondack Mountains. The Great Sacandaga Lake is one of the area’s best-kept secrets, an undiscovered mecca for boating, water sports, snowmobiling, skiing, fishing, and outdoor recreation.
BoardSafe’s customer, the Northville Rotary Foundation, was looking to improve the paddle accessibility of its lake and offer universal access to all looking to get out on the lake and paddle. The Northville Rotary Foundation selected BoardSafe’s Universal Access Kayak Launch as their accessible and adaptive solution for paddlers looking to get out and enjoy the beauty of the water. Here’s a video of its new launch:
Northville, NY Adaptive Kayak Launch Installed on Great Sacandaga Lake
The Village of Northville, Fulton County, is a well-kept secret strategically situated on the upper portion of the Great Sacandaga Lake, where the Sacandaga River flows from the north. Residents and visitors recognize the village as one of the most unique small towns in the Adirondacks. Great Sacandaga Lake is a wonderful getaway destination, surrounded by great restaurants, quaint shops, and bounds of history. Those looking for the kayak launch on the lake can find the launch at coordinates 43.21720734104117 - 74.1673455390182.
The universal access launch is the first of its kind in the Adirondacks. The launch project, spearheaded and funded by the Northville Rotary Foundation, prides itself on investing in the local communities and improving the quality of life for its residents. It’s common for BoardSafe to work with community groups like Rotary Clubs and paddling groups, nonprofits, and friends of parks, who are looking to provide additional recreational opportunities for paddlers of all abilities.
The scope of the Northville Kayak Launch Project included one universal access kayak launch and one 20-ft. gangway/chute consisting of
- (1) 8’2” x 16’4” floating dock.
- (1) 4’2” x 16’4” floating dock.
- (1) 16’4” kayak launch.
- (1) adaptive kit.
- (1) 20-ft. x 4ft single rail gangway.
- (1) 20-ft. kayak chute.
- Bulkhead mounting angle to attach to the concrete foundation.
- (2) precast concrete blocks.
Since 2009, BoardSafe Docks has designed, manufactured, and installed high-quality universal access kayak launches, floating docks, pedestrian bridges, and other marine access products. BoardSafe’s experience in construction and manufacturing gives them unparalleled expertise and innovative solutions to address the dynamic conditions of tides, currents, and other water fluctuations, ranging from severe flooding to drought conditions. This has made BoardSafe the trusted expert for park directors, civil engineers, landscape architects, and other professionals who desire only the best-engineered and highest-quality marine access systems.
Contact us today to help you configure your universal access launch system at BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe Creates Paddle Access to Chattahoochee River, GA
BoardSafe Docks stands out as the premier designer and manufacturer of the most structural and durable waterfront systems. Known for our expertise and innovative problem-solving, BoardSafe collaborates closely with clients to create customized solutions that meet site-specific needs. Rivers, lakes, and coastal environments can present unique accessibility needs, and BoardSafe Docks consistently delivers one-of-a-kind, long-lasting solutions to our customers.
When the Trust for Public Land (TPL), a national nonprofit dedicated to protecting public lands and enhancing outdoor access, launched the Chattahoochee RiverLands project in Georgia, they knew they needed a partner with specialized design capabilities. TPL approached BoardSafe Docks and brought them into two projects that required specialized design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation expertise. Their initiative, which aims at creating 100 miles of trails and parks along the Chattahoochee River, called for a robust, reliable solution to provide safe, accessible river access points across unique terrain.
Chattahoochee Hills Camp
BoardSafe was the perfect fit for this challenge. For the first installation at Chattahoochee Hills Camp, BoardSafe designed, engineered, manufactured, and delivered an 80-foot gangway, a floating dock, and an accessible kayak launch equipped with an adaptive kit. What set this project apart was the complex slope of the riverbank and the potential for flooding and strong currents. BoardSafe responded by designing a unique foundation system with a 28-foot support arm that connects to the floating dock, enabling the entire structure to rise and fall with the water level. They also reinforced the system with a piling mechanism at the top of the gangway to ensure stability, regardless of the fluctuating river conditions.
The piling system designed for the top of the gangway also helps keep the system in place should water levels rise.
The scope of work for the Chattahoochee Hills Riverland, located at 8661 Campbellton-Redwine Road, Chattahoochee Hills, GA, includes
- (1) 8x25-ft. Floating dock.
- (1) 6’10” x 8’6” Diverter dock.
- (1) 8’2” x 11’ Landing dock.
- (1) 16-ft. Left-Hand Clip-A-Launch kayak launch.
- (1) Adaptive Kit.
- (1) 80-ft. gangway.
- Bulkhead mounting angle.
- (2) Ramps: one bottom and one top of gangway.
- (1) 28-ft. stiff arm assembly and connecting hardware.
- Foundation connection bracket.
Standing Peachtree Park
The second Chattahoochee Riverlands location where TPL required BoardSafe’s expertise was for the launch system at Standing Peachtree Park. The park is located at 2630 Ridgewood Road NW, Atlanta, GA. This location also included an 80-ft. access gangway, floating dock, accessible kayak launch, adaptive kit, and a 28-ft. support arm that secures the launch to a concrete foundation along the river bank and very steep terrain.
The scope of work for Chattahoochee’s Standing Peachtree location includes
- (1) 8x25-ft. Floating dock.
- (1) 6’10” x 8’6” Diverter dock.
- (1) 8’2” x 11’ Landing dock.
- (1) 16-ft. Left-Hand Clip-A-Launch kayak launch.
- (1) Adaptive Kit.
- (1) 80-ft. gangway.
- Bulkhead mounting angle.
- (2) Ramps: one bottom and one top of gangway.
- (1) 28-ft. stiff arm assembly and connecting hardware.
Thanks to BoardSafe's structural expertise and innovative approach, TPL and the broader community gained durable, accessible waterfront solutions tailored to meet the unique challenges on the Chattahoochee River. When completed, the Chattahoochee RiverLands project will create accessible outdoor recreation destinations with 100 miles of parks, trails, and amenities stretching from Buford Dam to Chattahoochee Bend State Park. The Riverlands project will connect nearly 1 million nearby residents and visitors to the outdoors where they can kayak, swim, bicycle, picnic, walk, camp, and wheel along the scenic river.
Building a Legacy
Since 1972, TPL has protected more than 4 million acres of public land, created more than 5,364 parks, trails, schoolyards, and iconic outdoor places, raised $93 billion in public funding for parks and public lands, and connected nearly 9.4 million people to the outdoors. Their goal is for all of metro Atlanta to enjoy the benefits of recreating in the outdoors.
System Installation Completed by Blue Water Docks
BoardSafe Docks appreciates the partnership created with Kevin Jones and his installation team from Blue Water Docks in Chattanooga, TN. Kevin and his crew have completed several installations of BoardSafe’s product line and understand how BoardSafe’s systems come together. We are excited to work with this talented team that realizes the value our accessible products bring to communities. BoardSafe looks forward to building synergy with the Blue Water team, enabling us to expand our product line nationwide.
For more information about this project or the unique projects that BoardSafe designs, engineers, and manufacturers, call us at 610-899-0286 or visit BoardSafeDocks.com.
Utica NY Adds BoardSafe Kayak Launch for Utica Harbor Paddle Access
Another BoardSafe Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch project opened in September 2024 in Utica, New York.
This kayak launch provides paddlers of all abilities access to the Utica Harbor and the Mohawk River. The area has a rich history because it offers waterway access directly into the Erie Canal. Additionally, its strategic location provides commercial benefits as an important route between Albany and Syracuse. The specific area where the launch is located is part of a beautification plan to redevelop the waterfront for recreational opportunities, as well as future commercial shopping, dining, lodging, and other venues that will allow residents and tourists to enjoy the waterfront.
BoardSafe Docks appreciates Mohawk Valley Materials for selecting us to complete the dock portion of the project. Mohawk Valley Materials was hired by the City of Utica to help develop this part of the Utica Harbor for future use. Utica Mayor Michael Galime would like to see Utica Harbor finished with hotels, apartments, entertainment, and exercise facilities to attract residents and tourists to the waterfront. The project engineer was the Ramboll Group Architecture, Engineering, and Consulting.
BoardSafe Docks was responsible for designing, engineering, manufacturing, and installing the new universal access launch system. The project included a
- 60-ft.-long ADA gangway with universal access kayak chute.
- 10-ft. x 20-ft. cantilever deck that extends access over the seawall.
- (2) 8-ft. x 16-ft. aluminum welded floating docks that create a 16-ft. x16-ft. floating platform.
- (1) 16-ft.-long kayak launch saddle with adaptive boarding kit.
Customers looking to learn more about this project or discuss how BoardSafe Docks can help you with solutions for your water access project are encouraged to contact our design team at 610-899-0286. We at BoardSafe pride ourselves on helping you achieve your goals and bringing safe and accessible waterfront access to your community. BoardSafe custom solutions for your waterfront include
- Floating Docks Systems with Universal Access.
- Adaptive Kayak Launches.
- Accessible Fishing Piers.
- ADA-Compliant Gangways.
- Pedestrian Bridges.
- Rowing Center Docks.
Watch the Utica Harbor Project Video here:
Utica, NY Adaptive Kayak Launch on Utica Harbor and the Mohawk River
We’re heading back to the NRPA Conference 2024. Are you?
The NRPA Conference is taking place October 8 - October 10 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA. This event is the largest annual gathering of park and recreation professionals in one place, and an excellent opportunity to showcase, network, and learn about products and services in the field of recreation.
Come see BoardSafe Docks in the Exhibit Hall in Booth #2642!
BoardSafe’s kayak launch is designed for universal access and offers great stability with adaptive features. It improves the kayaking experience for paddlers of all abilities. The launch system is designed to accommodate both kayaks and canoes and is a perfect addition to parks, marinas, and waterfronts looking to improve accessibility.
For those looking to enhance their kayaking adventure with a safer, stable, and easy launch system, please stop by booth #2642. Scott and Dave from BoardSafe Docks would love to share information about BoardSafe’s product line and show you the features of an adaptive kayak launch. It’s not too late to register for the NRPA 2024 Annual Conference. We hope to see you there!
#NRPA2024 #WhereYouBelong #UniversalAccess #AccessibleSolutions
We're Counting Down Until #ASLA2024 in D.C.! Will you be there?
BoardSafe Docks is attending the ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture October 6th – 9th in Washington, DC.
The ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture is the largest annual gathering of landscape architecture and allied professionals, all coming together to learn, connect, share knowledge, gain inspiration, and bring value to their practice. The conference offers sessions, professional development, networking opportunities, and a world-class EXPO featuring over 275 vendors showcasing cutting-edge products and services.
Come see BoardSafe Docks in Booth #3757
BoardSafe’s kayak launch is designed for universal access and offers great stability with adaptive features. It improves the kayaking experience for paddlers of all abilities. The launch system is designed to accommodate both kayaks and canoes and is a perfect addition to parks, marinas, and waterfronts looking to improve accessibility.
For those looking to enhance their kayaking adventure with a safer, stable, and easy to launch system, please stop by booth #3757 in the exhibit hall. Tom Warchol and Kelly Beals from BoardSafe Docks would love to share information about BoardSafe’s product line and demonstrate the features of an adaptive kayak launch in person. It’s not too late to register at the ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture. We hope to connect with you there!
#ASLA2024 #BoardSafeDocks #UniversalAccess #AccessibleSolutions
BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, William R. Gaines Veterans Memorial Park, Charlotte County, FL
Charlotte County Parks and Recreation offered gratitude to BoardSafe Docks and Scott Tihansky for their invaluable support in designing, manufacturing, and volunteering to help install the new, fully ADA-compliant kayak launch at the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park, located at 20414 Edgewater Drive, Port Charlotte, Florida. On September 16, 2024, an installation team worked together to complete the assembly and installation of the BoardSafe Accessible and Adaptive Kayak and Canoe Launch.
The launch site is part of Charlotte County’s Blue Way Trail System, which invites kayakers to paddle along 219 miles of coastline in and around Charlotte County. This fully accessible launch was designed with features that can accommodate paddlers in wheelchairs and those with limited mobility, offering everyone who enjoys paddling the opportunity to get out and experience the county’s beautiful canalways and trail system.
The launch’s adaptive features were created with input from paddlers in wheelchairs who depend on their upper body extremities to enter and exit their vessels. The features (ADA gangway, boarding bench, grab bars, straps, pull bars, and signage) provide accommodations to amputees and those paralyzed from the waist down, giving them the ability to get out on the water with family and friends. The launch features offer independence and can be life-changing for anyone with mobility limitations.
Watch a demonstration video here:
The Most Accessible Adaptive Kayak Launch
This installation would not have been possible without the assistance of Keesling Construction Inc. of Punta Gorda, Florida. The Keesling crew brought in a crane to help move the components into place on-site. They also installed concrete pilings to secure the launch.
Florida Premiere Contractors, the contractor overseeing the kayak launch site development, prepared the site for installation and provided an aerial photo of the park during the process.
The county also extends thanks to Paddle for Heroes and its founder and CEO, Stephen Fleming, for their support in raising the funds for the kayak launch. Stephen flew down from Michigan and was on-site to assist with the installation. This ADA-compliant kayak launch would not have been realized without their support and fundraising efforts.
BoardSafe Docks understands the value an accessible launch brings to communities.
An accessible kayak launch with adaptive features benefits a significant portion of our veteran population, including paddlers with mobility impairments, older adults, and people with temporary injuries or permanent conditions. Ask any adaptive kayaker about their feelings of enjoyment, liberation, and empowerment after completing a paddle. Many will tell you they cannot wait to get back out on the water!
Charlotte County remains committed to creating a fully accessible park for its visitors to enjoy, as well as a location that recognizes the service and sacrifice of veterans and first responders from Charlotte County and beyond. Currently, over 22,000 veterans reside in Charlotte County. Every veteran and first responder has their own experience and tells their own story; this park is for them with appreciation and gratitude for their service.
Mike Gaines, a leading advocate working with county officials to memorialize his brother’s sacrifice, works tirelessly to create a park destination that honors his brother’s legacy and deep commitment to our freedom. Watch this video link about their joint efforts here: Beirut Peacekeepers Memorial Tower going up in Port Charlotte.
If you are interested in following updates about this fully accessible park in honor of all veterans and first responders, please click on this link to follow or make a worthwhile donation to:
Updates | WRGj Veteran Memorial Fund
William R Gaines Jr. Veteran Memorial Fund
3280-36 Tamiami Trail
Unit 121
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Phone: 941-218-0456
BoardSafeDocks.com prides itself on developing trusting and respectful relationships with our clients and is honored to be part of Charlotte County’s project, which will improve lifestyles for adaptive and recreation-loving paddlers.
For more information about our accessibility product line, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.